Written and photographed by Lindsay Kranitz, SUNY New Paltz Student
New Paltz has been a home away from home for me for almost three years already. As an adventure seeker, I’ve hiked around Lake Minnewaska and have seen the beauty of the Hudson Valley, or so I thought. There is whole other side I had not seen before that opened my eyes.
As an intern for Organic Hudson Valley Publications, I was able to get access tickets for Teatown Hudson River EagleFest, which hosts a bunch of activities such as multiple viewing sites, food trucks and, of course, eagle shows. Jessica Giusti and I, as Public Relations Coordinator and Social Media Intern, respectively, planned out our photography day at EagleFest by reviewing the different observation spots.
The first viewing location was the Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary. As we walked down the road leading to the small information center, the bird feeders planted right outside the building caught my eye.
There were birds flying back and forth, up and down, and all around the feeders—it was quite comical. Two girls trying to get photos of these fast-flying birds was a bit of a challenge; they would land on the feeder and a second later they would fly away. Luckily, I got a few good shots.
Next, we walked up a trail that led us to an overlook of the marshes. The walk up the trail was stunning. The sun was shining in through the few leaves left on the trees, making for the perfect photo.
I like details and textures, so close-up shots are something I really enjoy focusing on. Branches wrapping around logs, moss covering the top of trees. These little things usually make great photos.
As we continued on the trail, the view became more and more breathtaking. We would stop to take more photos, only to walk up a little more to find an even better view. Finally, we made it to the top. We did not see any eagles, unfortunately, but the view was something I have never seen before.
I am from Long Beach, New York, so I’m used to seeing marshes. But marshes with mountains in the background is a whole new landscape for me; almost a perfect pairing of the two places I call home. The mountains of the Hudson Valley and the marshes that remind me of Long Beach.
After taking everything in, and appreciating views such as this, we made our way back down the trail and prepared for our next viewing spot, Boscobel House and Gardens.
Saying I was with Organic Hudson Valley magazine made me feel very official when we checked in (and I was honored to represent them!). When we entered, I could tell this place was going to be a sight to remember. The windows and interior design in and of themselves were just magnificent, and I had to take a few photos.
As we walked along the path to the viewing area, the scenery was spectacular despite the fact that it was a bit of a cloudy day.
Watching families and friends chat with each other and enjoy such a beautiful view was delightful. After photographing a few shots of the scenery and taking it all in for the second time that day, we got chilly and decided to leave. Luckily,
EagleFest provided complimentary hot chocolate, tea and coffee to warm up after sightseeing. We gathered our thoughts and our cameras, and after a few sips of cocoa, we headed home.
It was a wonderful day to be able to experience a new place and take in sights I have never seen before. Although we didn’t see any eagles, it made me appreciate the little things in life and be grateful for experiences like this. Thank you, Teatown, for letting OHV be a part of this special event! █
